Early Years and Opening
Golf Mill Mall, or Golf Mill Shopping Center, opened on October 13, 1960, in Niles, Illinois. The mall’s design featured a distinct “mill” theme with ponds, bridges, and a functioning waterwheel. The architecture included an office tower, designed by Edo Belli, resembling the top of a golf ball, which became an iconic landmark.
Sears, one of the original anchor stores, attracted many visitors. The mall’s location at the intersection of Golf Road (Illinois Route 58), Milwaukee Avenue (Illinois Route 21), and Greenwood Avenue provided easy access for shoppers. Golf Mill’s early success paved the way for future expansions and additions.
Shortly after its opening, a Lord’s department store was built, enhancing the shopping options. However, Lord’s closed after a few years, and JCPenney replaced it, becoming a long-standing anchor store. This period marked the beginning of Golf Mill’s evolution as a retail hub.
During the early years, the mall also added the Mill Run Playhouse at the north end of the complex. This venue was not connected to the main shopping corridors but provided additional entertainment options for visitors, making Golf Mill a focal point for things to do near Chicago, Illinois.
Expansion and Changes in the 1980s
Throughout the 1980s, the mall saw major developments. In 1986, renovations turned the open-air design into an enclosed space. This change improved the shopping experience, especially during winter. MainStreet, another anchor, opened, drawing more visitors.
The new enclosed mall included a food court, adding dining options for shoppers. This renovation made Golf Mill more competitive with other malls in the region. Retailers saw the potential, leading to more stores opening, which boosted the mall’s appeal.
During this period, the mall’s unique design features, like the ponds and bridges, remained, maintaining its original charm. These expansions and updates kept Golf Mill relevant in a changing retail landscape.
Management and Ownership Changes
Management and ownership changes shaped Golf Mill‘s evolution. In 1994, General Growth Properties took over, bringing new ideas. Their management aimed to modernize and improve the mall’s offerings.
However, General Growth Properties faced financial challenges. By 2009, after filing for bankruptcy, Milwaukee Golf Management Corporation stepped in. This change brought stability and a focus on community engagement.
In August 2014, Sterling Organization acquired Golf Mill Shopping Center. This purchase marked a new era, with plans for further development. Sterling Retail Services, a subsidiary, managed the property with the aim of enhancing its appeal.
These management transitions influenced Golf Mill’s trajectory. Each company brought different strategies, helping the mall adapt to the changing retail environment.
Store Openings and Closures
Store openings and closures have shaped Golf Mill Shopping Center over the years. In 1989, Kohl’s acquired MainStreet, adding a popular department store to the mall. Target opened on October 11, 1998, in the north wing, creating another major draw for shoppers.
In 2005, Value City Furniture opened, replacing several smaller stores. This addition offered a new range of home furnishings and attracted a different customer base.
In 2006, another renovation introduced new flooring and a revamped food court entrance. Despite these improvements, the north wing and part of the south wing remained unchanged.
By 2010, Kerasotes ShowPlace 12 had opened, enhancing the entertainment options. AMC later acquired this theater, ensuring it remained a key feature.
Gordon Food Service opened on October 18, 2011, providing a grocery option outside the main mall area. Ross Dress for Less joined in 2012, filling a previously underused section. These new stores kept the mall dynamic and relevant.
However, not all changes were positive. Sears closed in December 2018, and Kohl’s followed suit on Halloween 2020. These closures marked the end of an era but also made room for new developments. Burlington replaced Kohl’s on October 29, 2021, showing the mall’s adaptability.
Recent Additions and Changes
In the past few years, Golf Mill Mall has seen several new additions and changes. In early 2017, Panera Bread opened near the main entrance, providing shoppers with a popular dining option.
Ulta Beauty joined the mall in November 2017, replacing part of the south section of the food court. This store offered a wide range of beauty products and services, attracting a diverse customer base.
In October 2018, Sears announced its closure as part of a national downsizing plan. The store closed in December 2018, marking the end of an era.
In August 2020, Chase Bank opened next to Panera Bread, adding convenient banking services. Around the same time, plans for a Chick-fil-A restaurant were underway.
This restaurant opened on October 12, 2021, on the northwest corner of the parking lot. These changes reflect the mall’s ongoing efforts to stay current and meet shoppers’ needs.
On October 29, 2021, Burlington opened in the space formerly occupied by Kohl’s. This new store offered affordable fashion and home goods, revitalizing that section of the mall.
Recent developments focus on a “live, work, play” concept. In January 2022, plans to demolish the former Sears, AMC, and the iconic circular tower were announced. The redevelopment will reintroduce the waterwheel and add outdoor retail, apartment complexes, and green spaces.
Transportation and Accessibility
Golf Mill Shopping Center is well-connected and easily accessible. The mall offers parking for 5,500 vehicles, making it convenient for those driving in. Its location at the intersection of Golf Road, Milwaukee Avenue, and Greenwood Avenue ensures easy access from multiple directions.
Public transportation options are also available. Various Pace bus routes serve the mall, connecting Golf Mill to surrounding areas and making it accessible for shoppers who rely on public transit.
Latest Developments at Golf Mill Mall (2023-2024)
Golf Mill Mall in Niles, IL, is undergoing a major transformation. In September 2023, the village board approved a term sheet for the redevelopment project, marking the first step towards the mall’s significant overhaul.
The redevelopment, now branded as Golf Mill Town Center, is projected to cost $440 million and aims to rejuvenate the decades-old shopping center.
Sterling Organization, the current owner, and the village of Niles have collaborated closely on this project. The redevelopment promises to create new businesses and jobs, enhancing the local economy and tax base.
Key components of the redevelopment include modern retail spaces, residential units, and green areas. The village plans to invest up to $96 million in the project through tax increment financing, which underscores its importance to the community’s future.
Public engagement has been a priority throughout the planning process. In May 2024, the village held open house meetings to update residents on the redevelopment status and gather feedback.
These meetings fostered transparency and community involvement, ensuring that the redevelopment aligned with residents’ needs and expectations.